MP Zeybek speaks on latest developments regarding the new school building to GÜNDEM

Xanthi's New Left MP, Hüseyin Zeybek, evaluated the latest developments regarding the new school building for the Xanthi Minority Middle and High School in an interview with GÜNDEM.

MP Hüseyin Zeybek recalled that he raised the issue in Parliament in December, addressing a verbal question to the Minister of Education. He said:

"We asked the Ministry of Education about the demand for a new school building for the Xanthi Minority Middle and High School. This was a verbal question, answered during the parliamentary plenary session. Deputy Minister of Education, Ms. Zetta Makri, responded to our inquiry. As you know, we’ve repeatedly brought up the school’s building problem in Parliament—through questions, written statements, and reports submitted by the school board. Unfortunately, we’ve received no responses. Sometimes, you direct a question to more than one ministry. The Ministry of Education ignored our queries, while the Ministry of Transport responded by stating that the Infrastructure Company is responsible for construction. Yet, no reply was given to the school board's application to this company, leaving the matter unresolved."

Zeybek emphasized the atmosphere of uncertainty and chaos created by the relevant authorities, adding:
"The Ministry of Education is shirking its responsibility. On December 16, 2024, I raised this issue in Parliament, asking Deputy Minister Makri about the building problem and the demand for a new facility. Her response was surprising: she claimed the school did not need a new building and that the current one was adequate and safe. It’s baffling how such a claim can be made when the entire community in Xanthi acknowledges the need for a new school building."

‘A Dismissive and Aggressive Attitude’
Zeybek criticized Deputy Minister Makri’s dismissive attitude during the parliamentary discussion:
"She not only denied the necessity of a new building but also listed alleged mistakes we’ve made. Her tone was patronizing, and she seemed visibly angry. She even stated that the Ministry of Education was not responsible for the matter but did not specify which institution was. This contradictory and unhelpful approach creates more questions than answers."

Highlighting the importance of modern education facilities for minority students, Zeybek expressed his disappointment:
"We are asking for a modern building for our children, just like other students enjoy. This is not a privilege but a fundamental human right and a matter of equality in education. However, it seems this right is being denied by a mindset that views state support for education as a favor rather than a duty."

A Persistent Struggle for Equality in Education
Concluding his remarks, Zeybek underlined the broader implications of the issue:
"The rigid and hostile approach we face reflects the classic stance of the New Democracy government toward minorities. Despite this, we will not give up. We will continue to fight for our children to study in a modern building with equal educational opportunities. Ignoring our legitimate demands and treating us as second-class citizens is unacceptable. Our struggle will go on until justice is served."